OXNARD, CALIF. – Cornerback Tracy Porter appears to be coming back strong from his offseason knee surgery. He has been running strong in practice, looking fast and fluid while he shakes off the rust. He is expected to make his preseason debut on Sunday night at Oakland.

As long as he doesn’t suffer any significant setbacks, he should be full speed by Week 1, which is huge for the Saints. Both Porter and fellow starter Jabari Greer were dinged up last season. But when healthy, they shut down the back end of the Saints’ defense, which allowed defensive coordinator to be more aggressive up front.

Notes: Defensive end Alex Brown added to the buzz surrounding third-year safety Malcolm Jenkins this week, saying that he has played with three special players in his football career – defensive end Jevon Kearse in college, linebacker Brian Urlacher with the Chicago Bears, and now Jenkins.

Saints defensive coordinator Gregg Williams has offered similar praise to Jenkins, saying he has the desire and work ethic of someone who wants to become an all-time great. Jenkins obviously has the natural playmaking ability, too, and he is even more comfortable this year as a free safety after beginning his career as a cornerback.